In a statement made by the Division of Campus Safety and Emergency Services and the Department of Public Safety, Syracuse University is temporarily prohibiting the use of self-balancing motorized scooters, or hoverboards, after national research continues to identify growing concerns that the devices are prone to explosion and catching fire. More than 30 colleges and universities, as well as major airlines and public transportation departments across the nation, have already banned the boards from use.
In response to these safety concerns, the University is instituting a temporary ban on the possession, storage and/or use of hoverboards on University property, including in all University-owned or -controlled buildings, facilities, residence halls, South Campus apartments and other structures.
“There is mounting evidence supporting that hoverboards are prone to explosions, fires and pose a threat to consumers,” says Tony Callisto, senior vice president for safety and chief law enforcement officer. “The University has conducted a thorough analysis of the early research and has concluded that there exists a serious safety threat to our community. This is the responsible decision to keep our campus safe.”
The National Fire Protection Association and U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission are continuing to investigate hazards associated with hoverboards. The University will continue to monitor that research and will revisit the hoverboard ban as needed.
According to the Syracuse University policy, first-time violators of the hoverboard policy will be issued a formal warning and given the opportunity to immediately remove the device from University property. Failure to remove a hoverboard from University property in a timely manner may result in confiscation of the device. Further penalties will apply to faculty, staff, students or visitors who do not comply with the policy.
Faculty, staff, or students who have questions about the ban on hoverboards should contact Chief Callisto at 315-443-5480 or acallist@syr.edu.
Dear Students, Faculty and Staff: Winter break is concluding, and soon the Spring 2022 semester will be underway. Over the last several weeks, the University continued to advance our early efforts to transform the Goldstein Alumni and Faculty Center and…
Dear Students and Families, As we prepare to welcome students back to campus in a few short days, I am writing to remind you of our collective commitment to keep ourselves and one another healthy and safe by adhering to…
For the last seven years, the Campus Framework has served as a “living roadmap,” a 20-year guide for enhancing the University’s physical landscape in alignment with the Academic Strategic Plan and the vision for an unmatched student experience. This week,…
Dear Students and Families: As we approach the Spring 2022 semester, I am writing to share a detailed overview of isolation protocols for students who test positive for COVID-19. These measures will help ensure we continue to protect the health…
Earlier this week, the @SyracuseU Instagram team solicited questions from and provided answers to students related to public health guidelines on campus as we approach the beginning of the spring semester. In case you missed it, here is a round-up…
If you need help with your subscription, contact sunews@syr.edu.
